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Friday, December 30, 2011

What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before? found genealogy records dated back to the 1400s﻿

Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I'm working on them this week while I work on the puzzle and yes, I did keep a few.

Did anyone close to you give birth? A niece and a nephew had babies.

Did anyone close to you die? Doug's Uncle Lu, Doug's Aunt Agnes, our good friend, David Neilson

Where did you visit? I went south to North Carolina twice to see my dad and family!

What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011? more time with Doug!

What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?September 20, the day that Liza and I flew together to see Dad in North Carolina

What was your biggest achievement of the year? Surviving Liza and Buddy's move to Arizona. No question.

What was your biggest failure this year? Spending far too much time in front of the TV watching the Casey Anthony trial. I know tons more about our judicial system than I ever needed to know and was not happy in the end AT ALL.

Did you suffer illness or injury? I discovered that I have a "wonky" pyloris, which has caused a major lifestyle change for me, but has also resulted in losing 36 pounds. (Not counting the five that I've gained since Liza was here!)

What was the best thing you bought? My new camera. LOVE it!

Whose behavior merited celebration? Buddy's success in school, his internship with the Harlem Globetrotters, Quayd's being ordained as a teacher, Gracie going into Young Womens, my dad's beating his battle with cancer, Kelly's making better choices every day.

Where did most of your money go?Medical bills and my Expedition.

What did you get really, really, really excited about? Liza coming in December, our trip ito NC in September, Pinterest.

What song will always remind you of 2011? Ain't No Sunshine by Kris Allen. American Idol 2008 was our favorite season yet! It's, no doubt, our favorite TV show!

What do you wish you'd done more of? Played more, stressed less.

What do you wish you'd done less of? Criticizing (others and myself.)

How did you spend Christmas? Quiet with just the five of us and we loved it.

Did you fall in love in 2009? Every year, over and over again with Doug. With Pinterest.

What did you want and get for Christmas? Connie's Chocolate Covered Cherries and an electric fondue pot.

What was your favorite film of this year? Seriously, strange, but we watched The Green Mile, a TV-edited version and I just couldn't get over how moved I was by this film. Also loved The Help.

What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I was 53 this year. Doug and I went to dinner with Stott and Wendy and several friends took me throughout the month.

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? Losing the last 20 pounds that I'm working on.

How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2005? As always, a comfy pair of jeans, a nice sweater, great earrings.

What kept you sane? Lunch at Chili's 3 or 4 times a week with girlfriends.

Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most? Can't even think of one.

What political issue stirred you the most? The elections before the elections before the election.

Who did you miss? Liza and Buddy. My dad.

Who was the best new person (people) you met? My cousin Kent's family. I adore them all!They are awesome!

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011: Let it go. This year, I learned that you can't force people to think or feel the way you want them to, to believe you even when you're telling nothing but the truth or to accept you as you are. SO. Therefore and in behalf, don't worry about them. Just be your best and if others don't like it, it's their problem, not yours. And let it go no matter how they feel or act toward you. Repeating myself again...It's their problem, not yours!

Quote a song lyric that sums up your year: I'm gonna love you through It by Martina McBride. Not because it's about cancer, but this year, we've been through a lot with several people in our closest circles. It's been great to be there for each other. If you've not heard it, here's an opportunity. Grab a tissue and hit play.

When writing the story of your life, don't let anyone else hold the pen.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

The decorations won. They are still standing. I spent yesterday dejunking the gallery and kitchen of all the holiday extras. Maybe today, I'll undecorate. This is so not me! There was one year that I actually took things down on Christmas night!

First, today, the latest about Max. He's been moved to the rehabilitation part of the hospital and is in intensive Physical Therapy on a daily basis. Liza told me that last night that he'd asked her how her mom was! It made me cry. Liza told him about our Christmas and that Quayd had made him a wand. She's not taken it because he was in ICU and couldn't have anything in there. He asked for it and she'll be taking it down next time they go . Quayd just beamed when I told him. Max can use the wand and work some great magic. From what we're hearing, he doesn't need a wand! He's improving so rapidly! It's been one miracle after another! Happiness!!!

I loved this Year in Review Meme from the first year I started blogging. I thought it would be a fun way to start my year end reviews, which I'll do a few of over the next days.

JANUARY1. Did you have a new year's resolution this year? My biggest resolution last year was to simplify. Although most people would laugh at me saying I did, I really did. I partied less, entertained less, spent less, took life a little slower this past year. (I realize that my slow is still in high gear, but as Doug, the Star Wars fan, says, last year, I didn't go "light speed". So, that's an improvement.2. Who kissed you at midnight? Doug kisses me every New Years Eve!3. Did it snow where you live? Last year, I can't even remember. But, it's supposed to this year!5. Have you ever been to Times Square to watch the ball drop? No and I probably never will. New Years Eve at our home has always been a party where the guests come in pajamas, enjoy a lovely candlelight dinner at a beautiful table and then games and talk. This year, however, we're thinking a quiet night at home alone. We'll see.

FEBRUARY 1. Who was your valentine? Doug since I was 17.2. What did your valentine get you? Dinner at our Olive Garden and roses.3. When you were little, did you buy valentines for your whole class? Absolutely!

MARCH1. Are you Irish? No2. Did you wear green on St. Patty's Day? A lime green sweater3. What did you do for St. Patty's Day?: I made green oatmeal and milk for breakfast and then I spent the rest of the day at the church decorating several different tablescapes for the Relief Society Social. It was lovely and fun!

APRIL1. Do you like the rain? I love rain and thunderstorms! It's the one thing that I still miss from my youth, living in Florida.2. Did you play an April Fool's joke on anyone this year? No, but nature played one on us. We went to the ranch for Spring Break with the B's and discovered a foot of snow when we got there! We weren't dressed or prepared for winter again.3. Did you get tons of candy on Easter? Reeses Eggs and Snickers!

MAY1. What's your favorite kind of flower? Gerber Daisies, and Baby’s Breath and although Red is my favorite color, it's my least favorite colored rose. I love yellow and pink roses.2. Do you like the spring? Love it! I love opening the windows and airing out the house. I love seeing the beautiful flowers peeking out of the ground.3. Finish the phrase: "April showers bring...more snow in Utah."4. What would you think of as a spring color? All pastels, but mostly GREEN!

JUNE1. What year did you graduate from school? 1976 from the same school that Johnny Depp attended2. Did you go on any vacations last June? It rained and snowed most of June and we just stayed home waiting to set up the pool.

JULY1. What did you do on the 4th of July? We went to Doug’s brother, Danny's to watch the fireworks, just below the stadium, with all of Doug’s siblings, their families and our kids and grands except Dale. 2. Did you go on any vacations during this month? To the ranch in Idaho, like always for the Corbridge Reunion.

AUGUST1. Did you do anything special to end off your summer? We celebrated with the B's one last time.2. What was your favorite summer memory of 2010? Seeing Miki and the B's sealed together as a family in the Logan LDS Temple.3. Did you go swimming a lot in the summer? Getting a solar cover on the pool kept it warmer and much more inviting, even for latenight swims!4. Did you go to the beach a lot? Not once. In the past, we've gone to Bear Lake with Carol during the summer a few times. But, life got in the way last summer.

SEPTEMBER1. Did you attend school/college in '05? I went to meet the kids teachers, does that count?2. Who is/was your favorite teacher? My HS French Teacher, Ken McMeans, who I kept in touch with for 20 years after graduation. We were great friends. Today, I love the teachers I get to hear in Relief Society and Sunday School each week.3. Did you like fall better than summer? I LOVE fall, it's my second favorite, next to winter.

OCTOBER 1. What was your favorite Halloween costume ever? It would definitely have been the night I hung out in the casket.2. What's your favorite candy? Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, plain.3. What did you dress up like this year? A witch.

NOVEMBER1. Whose house did you go to for Thanksgiving? We hosted Thanksgiving here, as always.2. Do you like stuffing? I LOVE stuffing. It’s the best part of the meal!3. What are you thankful for? I could go on for hours, so I’ll just say, the Gospel, Family, Friends, Faith, Health and Talents.

DECEMBER1. Do you celebrate Christmas? That's an understatement!2. Have you ever been kissed under mistletoe? Yes, many, many times!3. What did you want this year for Christmas? A new Bose Dock. And I got it!!4. What's the best present you ever got for Christmas? I discovered that I was pregnant with Liza on Christmas Eve and she was our first child conceived without fertility drugs!5. Do you like cold weather? I would MUCH rather be cold than hot! You can always add a layer of clothing, an extra blanket, turn the heat up, toss a log on the fire, but you can’t cool off near as easily!6. How would you rate your year on a scale of 1-10? It’s been a great year for the most part. Miki's birth, adoption and sealing. Loads of fun gatherings, great friends. For the most part, we had a healthy year. We were very blessed all year long in so many ways. In thinking about our biggest challenges of the year, the heartache of seeing grown children make choices that do not go along with what they've been taught was at the top of the list. And, of course, Max's accident, although Max wasn't our direct challenge, but Max reminded us of how precious life is and how quickly life can change andhow we can believe in miracles! It's been a gift to see him recovering from what seemed like nearly impossible circumstances. 2010 has been good to the Corbridges! Enough said. (well, until tomorrow when I do another review. ;))

Thursday, November 04, 2010

I am thankful for... my good husband who encourages me to have fun and make the moments count, for a mother who lives five houses away, for living in a wonderful community with so many friends, for this beautiful season that has been delayed an extra month this year, for Wi-fi Internet connections in hotels and my laptop computer!

I am wearing...black jammies, red fuzzy socks and my darn glasses because I can't see without them in my old age!

I am remembering...tlast night. Doug brought the kids to the hotel for a swim and some fun. They were so excited for the little surprise! I am thinking about all the times that we've taken them to this hotel over the years for whatever reason. Denise and I were talking about it last night....some people might think it was really a strange thing to check into a hotel in your own town. But, why? It's not home. What difference is it if you are in your town or somewhere across the country, if you are checking in to enjoy the pool, hottub and have a little vacation from life. They stayed till bedtime and went home

I am going... to play some more with Denise today and be home before the kids get home from school. ZJ has a report on minks to work on this afternoon.

I am reading...the Book of Mormon.

I am hoping... that my son Dale has a great birthday today. He's 32, which he said is "ancient".

On my mind... to go to Taipan this morning or not to?

From the learning rooms... a

Noticing that... it's time to get up and get moving! Check out is at 11.

Pondering these words...Envy is the art of counting the other fellow's blessings instead of your own. An acquantance brought these words to my mind recently by their actions. Why can't we all just be happy with what we have in our own lives instead of worrying that someone else might have more. It's not that others have more. They have different! This is one of life's lessons that would benefit us all to learn early!

From the kitchen... I found a very tasty recipe last night for Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip. I'll post it on the cooking blog as soon as I try it and I think that may be tonight for dinner... with my own twist. We'll see how it goes.

Around the house... are lots of leaves falling from the trees and frozen flowers and plants needing attention before winter!

One of my favorite things ~serendipity!

Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes of which all men have some.

1. Where is your cell phone? charging on the nightstand2. Your significant other? Doug3. Your hair? Needs to be done4. Your mother? has the babes right now5. Your father? was very sick the last time we talked.6. Your favorite thing? family7. Your dream last night? I can't remember, which is rare.8. Your favorite drink? Anything ice cold and carbonated9. Your dream/goal? to paint this entertainment center one of these days...how's that for non-committed!?10. The room you're in? my gallery11. Your ex? Diet Coke12. Your fear? germs13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? home14. Where were you last night? I had an interview with the bishop then ran with Connie, then home with Doug.15. What you're not? ready16. Muffins? actually, cinnamon roll this morning would be preferred.17. One of your wish list items? a nice patio set18. Where you grew up? South Florida and North Carolina21. Your TV? off for the summer22. Your pets? Go-Go23. Your computer? both, usually on24. Your life? Content and happy25. Your mood? dreading taking Gracie to the dentist. dreading paying for it. excited to come home and enjoy the rest of the day!26. Missing someone? Natalie and Carol, both have had much busier summers than I!27. Your car? dirty from the last rain28. Something you're not wearing? clothes. I'm still in my nightgown at 9:16.29. Favorite Store? these days, it's the grocery store. LOVE shopping for picnics and summer parties!30. Your summer? more casual than in years!31. Like someone? friends32. Your favorite color?Red33. When is the last time you laughed? last night at dinner34. Last time you cried? last night, over something that happened over a year ago. But, Sunday, bigtime, over someone that's breaking my heart right now.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

It's a great morning! The babes are sleeping in. No school till Monday. Doug will be home early today. We're all home together until Monday. Lots of good food in the works! Family, games, movies, food and fun! A great weekend ahead! Here's a little repeat of a Thanksgiving Meme:

Do you cook all or part of the meal? I cook every single bite! If we have guests, I always invite them to bring drinks or a dessert and even if they do, I prepare exactly the same menu to the T everything Thanksgiving. In the minds of those who live in our home, Thanksgiving is supposed to taste exactly the way I cook it and no one else’s will do. (Not that I think mine is the best, it’s just what is expected.)

How much do you spend buying groceries for the meal? It gets a little higher each year, I notice, and I use the same shopping list. This year, the actual meal was almost $125. It's the most expensive meal of the year every year, but it does mean tasty leftovers for the whole weekend!

Do you eat at home or go to someone else’s?Only once have we gone someplace else. It was fun, it was delish, but it wasn’t our Thanksgiving. Always at home.

Stuffing with giblets or without? Seriously? You’d have to touch them.

Anything you won’t eat at the Thanksgiving meal? Olives. (Wait, that’s all the time, not just Thanksgiving.) (BUT. I did buy some this year and plan on putting them on a platter tomorrow just for Doug and ZJ. They'll be so happy because I never ever buy them.)

Carve Mr. Gobble at the table or serve on a platter? On a platter because we cook him upside down in a browning bag so he’s not nearly as pretty, but oh is he juicy.

Favorite pie? Dutch Apple ala mode. I always forget to buy the icecream! I do that every year! That's what I'll ask Liza to bring!

Extended family, friends, both or just the immediate family for dinner? Invite the town, the more the merrier!

After dinner, do you go to the latest movie or watch football on TV or just a turkey induced snooze?NO football. Usually, we go to holiday movie or DVD and lots of Christmas music!

Do you watch the Macy’s Parade? Always have it on in the background. It’s one of my childhood memories.

Christmas decorations up before or after? Up until the past few years, right after dinner. Now, it's the weekend before Thanksgiving so that I can relax and enjoy the weekend with everyone else instead of be in a mess while decorating.

Black Friday shopping or sleep in? I've got mixed feelings on this one. I've done it and loved it, done it and thought it was insane, stayed home and just relaxed. One thing that I do always do on Black Friday is go to a huge craft fair that morning. Also crazy busy but fun!

Any special Thanksgiving tradition? We always share the things that we are most grateful for. Sometimes it’s sweet and tender. Other times, we laugh until the tears come. My favorite thing about Thanksgiving is that this is the day that we pull out the Christmas music. When I hear the Mannheim Steamroller trumpets begin, it means Christmas is officially here!!

Favorite thing about Thanksgiving? It’s such a casual day and usually surrounded by family and loved ones! I do most of the prep the day before. The rolls, mashed potatoes and gravy are the only things that take prep that day. We spend it playing, talking, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. I LOVE THANKSGIVING!

Favorite Thanksgiving memory? I seriously don’t have one. I love the years that we’ve had guests, family and friends. I love the traditions, the official "Let the holidays begin" feeling. Every Thanksgiving is my favorite Thanksgiving.

Friday, October 09, 2009

Yesterday, Denise and I went for a drive to Preston, Idaho. We had a nice little visit and went to a few of the little stores in the small town. It was a pleasant way to spend the morning, but Denise had to hurry home to get her nails done. So, I turned off the music and went for a little drive through across the valley. It was a wonderful experience and I experienced a tender mercies in my life. This morning, Erin and I are off on a little spontaneous adventure. So, my favorite quick meme...

I am thinking... that they should leave the moon alone and try harder to come up with solutions for cancer instead.

I am thankful for... the example and influences of so many good friends.

I am wearing...my pink jammies and in a few minutes, my jeans,a green sweater and my favorite earrings which were a gift from Marilyn.

I am remembering...the time that my friend Katie and I were at Village Inn at midnight. We saw one of her roommates' boyfriends with his arm around another girl. They were all over each other, even though they were in a large group. He didn't know me at all and Katie's back was to him. When our server, another college age guy, came to take our order, I asked him if he'd do us a favor. We asked him to deliver a note that I'd written. It said something to the effect of "Where's Melissa tonight?" (or whatever the roommate's name was) just to let him know that he was busted. Our server waited a few minutes and gave it to the boyfriend's server. She walked up to the boyfriend and said, "One of the other servers asked me to give this to you." We sat from a distance across the restaurant and watched him remove his arm from around the girl. He sat more straight. He looked everywhere around the restaurant. He was instantly ice cold. AND SQUIRMING bigtime! We laughed and laughed the rest of the night. Don't cheat! You'll get caught! Don't ask where that came from but it still makes me laugh.

I am going... to play with Erin today! Imagine that!

I am reading...the Twilight series again before the movie comes out.

I am hoping... that my kids continue to choose to listen to classical music as they get older. (They listen to it more than I do.)

From the learning rooms... a certain friend who shares her positive outlook on life in all things. I learn by her example.

Noticing that... it's time to make breakfast for the girls.

Pondering these words...from Elder Quinton Cook's LDS General Conference talk... He said that it is more important to immerse your children in the gospel of Christ than any other thing and continued that providing spiritual instruction is as important and providing food, clothing and shelter. I loved this talk and really have been thinking about the things I teach my children by word and example.

From the kitchen... I've got siblings dinner menu on my mind.

Around the house... are rooms waiting for paint! Hopefully tonight, I'll finish the downstairs bathroom. Tomorrow, I'll be doing nothing but painting!

One of my favorite things~ being spontaneous even though I've got painting to do!

Friday, February 13, 2009

Two posts in one day.... something that I rarely do. My favorite neice, Brooke, had this on her blog and I took the challenge because hey! any prize from Brooke will be a keeper! So, here's the deal: Something just for you especiially from me! The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. I loved Brooke's interpretation of this little game and here are her "restrictions and limitations":

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!2- What I create will be just for you.3- It'll be done this year. (might be a little while)4- You have no clue what it's going to be. It may be a story. It may be poetry or an article on properly cleaning your face before a masque. I may draw or paint something. I may bake you something and mail it to you. Who knows? Not you,that's for sure! (From me, it will more than likely brownies or a paper creation, because unlike Brooke, my poetry or painting wouldn't be something anyone would take seriously!)5- I reserve the right to do something extremely strange. (I would have to add that I reserve the right to take six extra months in getting to the post office to get it mailed. But, you will get it eventually.)

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same prize to the first 5 people who post on your blog. The first 5 people to repost and leave a comment telling me they did win an AWESOME homemade gift by yours truly!

Saturday, January 24, 2009

It's a very rainy Saturday morning. Doug was called into work at 5 this morning. He should be home by noon. We'll probably take the babes over to the pool for a bit, then the big girls and I are going to see Bride Wars later in the afternoon.

I realized that I've not taken a photo of Quayd with his new glasses! He got them over the holidays and has been very good about putting them on as soon as he wakes up! I guess he likes seeing. We were amazed that last year, at his school screening, his eyes were fine. Then this year, he couldn't see a thing. The doctor said that this is typical around age eleven. I think he looks so smart! The best part, he does too! (By the way, hasn't Go-Go grown!)

I've been informed that I've neglected my cooking blog since the holidays. Sorry! The computer woes didn't help the situation. Next week, I'll add a recipe a day to make up for lost time! I did add one this week and will be adding a treat later today!

Last night, we took the babes to the pool for an hour, came home to a quick dinner and then watched Freaky Friday together. I'd forgotten how much I love that movie. Jamie Lee Curtis is amazing! Snap!

Here's a little Saturday meme. Speaking of memes. We were talking about it at Bunco the other night and everyone had their own way of saying it. So, I came home and looked it up. The word is "meme". It's pronounced "meeeeeem" with the long e sound. Not me-me. The definition is [noun]. A unit of cultural information, such as a cultural practice or idea, that is transmitted verbally or by repeated action from one mind to another.I just thought I'd share since everyone always follows the word with a conversation that begins with "How do you say that word?" or "What exactly is a meme?" So, here's a Saturday meme and then I'm off to make some breakfast...banana pancakes... one of those non-exciting ones that isn't nearly as wonderful as cold cereal. (See yesterday's entry.)

The Meme :

One thing I won’t let my husband buy me…..clothes. Westernwear doesn't lookt that great on me!

One thing I would love to have, but I probably will never have……..a horse. I love them but would never have it in me to care for them the way that they need to be cared for. But. I love them!

One thing you will never find in my closet…………a pair of hiking boots. I hate things around my ankles.

One thing I would choose if I were having elective surgery………is there surgery to perk up "the girls" without implants? Did I just say that?

One thing I love about my face………..my eyes

One thing that I love to do………..build a huge family room onto the back of our home

One thing I would like to change if I could………...I'd change my tastebuds to love and crave things like carrot sticks and lettuce instead of Diet Coke and Popcorn with Reeses.!

One thing I would change as a mom………..I'd be able to relax more about things that I already know don't really matter

One thing I would do if I had unlimited money………..build that room for our family and be a "secret santa" to others all year long

One thing I that I will not do again……….get a puppy in the middle of winter. Housetraining is not nearly as simple as in the summertime!

One thing that I would like to do……….go to New York City for a week long GNO!

One thing I could do without……………the flu

One thing I love to smell……apple candles

One thing I would do if I won the lottery……..I'd have to buy a ticket to win it, and that won't happen, but if I won, hmmm... I'd pay off my home, put a ton in the bank and then take the whole family (bigs and babes) to some warm island, swim and snorkel a ton in the ocean, para-sail until we tired of it soak on the beach and come home with a great tan

One thing that infuriates me.....Wal-Nart in North Logan UT.

One thing that I love about winter………..Snow! The more the better!

One thing I am addicted to ………..Doug

One thing I pray for………….for my kids (bigs and babes) to make good choices every day and for me to be kind and patient

One thing I wish I had………our house paid off. Wouldn't everyone!?

One thing I would do again, regardless of the pain……have the tonsillectomy/adnoidectomy. I've never felt better! This is the first winter that I've not been flat down in bed several times. No more sleep apnea. It's wonderful! I'd just have done it at 12 instead of 50 and by choice, not when I was sicker than I've ever been in my life!

One thing that I absolutely hate to do………go to the post office.

One thing that is weird about me………..I am very unorganized but the most organized person I know.

One thing that I need help on………….lifting heavy things above my shoulders... even a gallon of milk or heavy pot. The result of an injury from a car accident twelve years ago.

One thing I find most relaxing………..Doug's nightly foot massage with lots of warm lotion

One thing that could get me in trouble………"killing time" in a place like Best Buy, Taipan Trading Company, Staples, Pier One, Borders.... you get the picture

One thing that annoys me……..cabinet and closet doors left open. It makes me completely insane!

One thing I dread; therefore, don’t do very often……..going to the post office and getting gas in the van

One thing that I have learned, but still sometimes forget……Don't worry, be happy!

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Bunco was a blast, as usual! Tami is the most awesome hostess, as usual! Her dinner was great! Two soups and lots of goodies to go with, including her wonderful "blondies", as she called them. Blond brownies, which I'm posting today on the cooking blog. OH MY! Tami also had these tasty grapefruit candies that she'd special ordered. Very very nummy and not sour. They were the food talk of the evening! Hayley brought some delicious pumpkin bread, which was to die for. I'll be eating very lightly today because I ate more than enough last night. And of course, Hayley won highest score. Hayley, who is my friend, Linda's daughter, and not so secretly, she's one of my heroes in life, wins every. single. month! She's our regular sub and she's adorable and darling and fun but the girl rolls those dice like lightning! She wins every month and we all tease that she's not subbing next month. Shejoked that she wasn't even going to tell us that she'd won last month but then she heard that the prizes were irresistible and she didn't want to miss out. Naturally, she took one home. So, last night, when it was time for prizes, she kept quite until someone asked her specifically what her score was... one point higher than the highest score. She won again. That brought about the most teasing and laughter of the evening. Too funny!

Our loser prizes were adorable little Halloween "Boo" plaques. I'm inspired! Today, I'll start putting out a few of my pumpkins! I've had the apple decor out but haven't been able to force myself away from summer and into the real fall stuff yet. I think that I'm there. At least, moving in that direction. Doug pulled the Fall decoration storage bins out two weeks ago, but I've just not had the fall umph to get things out yet. Interestingly enough, almost everyone I know has felt the same way this year. My friend, Kara, commented that she knew that putting the fall stuff out meant Christmas is next and she's "just not ready yet". That says alot because Kara does Christmas earlier than me each year!

Today is a huge day in the history of our family. This afternoon, Doug, Kelly and I will appear before the judge. Kelly will be iinterviewed and then sign over the relinquishment papers, which means that we are one step closer to the adoption. This is half of the challenge complete! Now, if the babes' natural father will sign, we go before the judge once more and voila, done! I wish I could say, "as simple as that!" But, today is a giant step forward! Still praying! Enough said.

I told Kelly that I would pick her up, we'll go to lunch with Doug before seeing the judge, then she's coming home for the afternoon for dinner and then, she and I are going to see Mamma Mia (imagine that) before I take her home. I'm praying that the day will go smoothly!

I've been tagged by Erin! So, here goes...

8 Things I am Passionate About:

My family

My faith

My friends

Getting healthy and thinner

Cooking

Blogging

Decorating

Studying

8 Words or Phrases I Say Often:

I love you!

Love you big!

Wash your hands!

Close the door!

Where's my planner?

totally

seriously

gazillion

8 Things I want to do before I Die:

Finalize this adoption and take the babes to be sealed in the temple

See my children grown to adulthood living productive lives

Go to West Virginia with my mother to do some family history

Skydive

Go to New York... the city and Palmyra

Teach Relief Society as a real calling

Go on an Alaskan Cruise with Doug

See Doug scuba in the Caribbean

8 Things I Have Learned From my Past:

Family and friends are more important than anything in life.

The truth is so good, it never hurts to tell it.

Being organized makes life much more simple and sweet.

Arguing never gets you anywhere, so why bother.

Make every moment count because you don't know when the moments will end.

If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right.

The more you give and serve, the better you feel!

You're never alone. All you have to do is get on your knees.

8) Places I Would Love to Go or See:

New York City

Palmyra NY (LDS Church Historical site)

back to my son Dale's stomping grounds

France

The island in Greece where Mamma Mia was filmed

Alaska

Zihuatanejo Mexico

Curacao

8 Things I Currently Need or Want:

the adoption finalized!

a small pocket camera that I can keep in my purse (I've requested only Best Buy Gift Certificates for my birthday from Doug and my bigs!!)

a new set of funky dishes for 12 because I love dishes

a new computer desk chair because this one's cushion is tired

some new lipstick

my salsa finished and sitting pretty on the counter in canning bottles

Monday, May 05, 2008

First, I took this photo of my lilac bushes yesterday afternoon! A green photo instead of white! Spring!!

I borrowed this meme from Amy's blog and Amy borrowed it from Chris'. I thought it was pretty fun to play! The meme rules: 1. put your music player on shuffle 2. press forward with each question 3. use the song title as the answer to the question - EVEN if it doesn't make any sense whatsoever - NO CHEATING! I used my "Sing along" playlist, which basically is the list of songs I know all of the words to and sing along with the most. It's my most played list. Very telling when I look at the songs, actually thinking about the words to them all.

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY? Cinderella by Firefall (There's something about this song that has always made it one of my favorites. It also comes up as #3 on my Most Played list.)

WHAT'S YOUR OUTLOOK ON LIFE? Blessed by Martina McBride Honestly, that's what popped up and I definitely feel that it should be the song of my life!

WHAT DOES YOUR FAMILY THINK OF YOU? Grown Men Don't Cry by Tim McGraw This song always makes me cry. Not sure if it fits, but it's sure a beautiful song!

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU? We're really not that Different by Collin Raye Another song that makes me cry! Love it!

WHAT DO STRANGERS THINK OF YOU? Islands in the Stream by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton I can sing both parts of the harmony in this song and actually get it right! Being that I'm not a singer, that's good stuff!

HOW IS YOUR LOVE LIFE? Happy to be Stuck with You by Huey Lewis Doug and I sing this together all the time! This answer actually works!

HOW WILL YOUR LOVE LIFE BE IN THE FUTURE? I'll Go on Loving You by Alan Jackson Sorry, Carol! wink-wink! I think that this song is pretty applicable!

ABOUT YOUR MARRIAGE? Devoted to You by Carly Simon and James Taylor I'm liking this game so far.

ABOUT YOUR KIDS? Incomplete by Backstreet Boys Although I'm not sure about the lyrics to this one, I do feel incomplete without my babes around, and my bigs too. AND... remember when that lady asked me if I wasn't embarrassed about how my big kids had turned out... this was my answer. NO! I'm not! They aren't done yet! None of us are!

ARE YOU GOOD AT SCHOOL? Poetry Man by Queen Latifah Not sure about how this one would apply but hey, Poetry and school, right? I have always loved this song and Queen Latifah's remake of it is one of the best remakes ever!

WILL YOU BE SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE? Coming Around Again by Carly Simon Hmmm... this song is about burning the toast and sneezing babies. It was the closing song in an awful movie back 15 years or so ago with Meryl Streep and Jack Nicholson. BUT. Life really is full of fixing the toaster and Daddy breezing in. What's the quote about life being full of the "moments". The line in the song that I love... "And I believe in love, what else can I do, I'm so in love with you." So, everyday life, surviving it, that is success!

WHAT SONGS SHOULD THEY PLAY ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? You Shouldn't Kiss me Like This by Toby Keith I guess that would have to be a song for a private party with Doug! I love this song and the video of it cracks me up!

WHAT SONG SHOULD THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL? Legend of your own Time by Carly Simon That cracked me up! It's a great funeral song! "This isn't exactly what we had planned!" ha-ha!! Is life ever??

THE SOUNDTRACK OF YOUR LIFE? The Music of the Night by Michael Crawford (Phantom of the Opera) How appropriate, being that I listen to Phantom more than any other soundtrack ever. We did the math and figured that I've listened to it start to finish over 1000 times and that was a few years ago. Yep, this one works.

YOU AND YOUR BEST FRIEND ARE . . .Said I loved You but I Lied by Michael Bolton Okay, I admit that I'm a huge Michael Bolton song and this is the best song that he ever sang. It's not about lying. It says that Saying I love You wasn't enough because the words aren't enough to express how much you love someone. Hey, that works for my friends! They are the best!

HAPPY TIMES? You can Call Me Al by Paul Simon I can't think of a more fun song to listen to! It always makes me happy! I haven't a clue what he was thinking when he wrote it, but, it's my party song! That worked too!

SAD TIMES? Dust in the Wind by Kansas How funny is that! I had to actually listen to the entire song and think about this one.

EVERYDAY? Soak up the Sun by Sheryl Crow It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you got! Lighten up! You got no one to blame! Look up! Soak up the sun! Hey, that couldn't have been any more appropriate! Another happy song!

FOR TOMORROW? Remember When by Alan Jackson Too funny. The song for tomorrow is remember the past. Well, that works. This is a great song to put as the background music for a photo CD! Seriously!

FOR YOU? One of these Nights by the Eagles This or any Eagles song. They are my most listened to album! The sign of a true 70s gal!

WHAT DOES NEXT YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR ME? Scarborough Fair by Carly Simon I guess this song would be appropriate. I have no clue what it's really about just as I have no clue what next year will bring. If you've have told me ten years ago that I'd be a mommy to three young children again, I'd have never believed it. If you've have told me six months ago that I'd be caretaker for my mother, who was now living with us and experiencing cancer, I've have said, "Seriously??" So, who knows what next year will bring?! We'll just hold our breath and see, won't we!?

WHAT DO I SAY WHEN LIFE GETS HARD? Breathe by Faith Hill Laughing out loud! Did I just say something about holding my breath! LOL

WHAT SONG WILL I DANCE TO AT MY WEDDING? Then you can Tell me Goodbye by Neal McCoy I didn't have a wedding reception or dance at my wedding. But, this song... "Kiss me each morning for a million years" works for me!!

WHAT DO YOU WANT AS A CAREER? No One Needs to Know by Shania TwainI'm so not a Shania fan but this song makes me happy. It's just cute and fun and happy. My career is a Wife and Mom. That's happy... most of the time.

YOUR FAVORITE SAYING? My Heart will Go On by Celine Dion (The Titanic Song) They wore this song out but I still love it! It's a great song of hope. Also, not a huge Celine fan but do love some pieces. This one makes me want to watch the movie. I'm a sucker for a good tear-jerker.

THE SONG THAT YOU WILL PUT AS YOUR SUBJECT? Best of My Love by the Eagles I said at the beginning that this little meme was telling. In looking at all the music I listen to the most, it's all about love! That's works for me!

Monday, April 28, 2008

Mom gave me an awesome cookbook for Christmas and I've been dying to try these tasty biscuits, but I usually make homemade rolls on Sundays. Yesterday, I realized that I was out of eggs, so the biscuits were my second choice and we even had fresh chives growing in my flowerbed already! Bonus! They were heavenly! This recipe made about twenty biscuits. They aren't exactly like the ones at Red Lobster, but they are pretty darn good!

Preheat oven to 400°. Grease a baking sheet. Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and pepper into a large bowl. Rub the butter into dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Add the cheese and chives and stir to mix. Make a well in the center of the mixture. Add the buttermilk and stir until the batter comes away from the sides of the bowl. Drop in 3 tbsp. mounds spaced 2-3 inches apart onto baking sheet. Bake for 12 -14 minutes until golden brown.

I'm totally borrowing this meme from Marilyn's blog! I loved it! I know that she won't mind!

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

I WANT: my mom to get betterI HAVE: amazing and wonderful friendsI WISH: that there was an instant cure for cancerI HATE: olives and mustardI MISS: a friend who's on a trip right nowI HEAR: The Eagles Hotel California right now on my iTunesI WONDER: where my two missing rings have goneI REGRET: that I haven't got enough time to respond to all of my email every dayI AM NOT: feeling my mojo latelyI DANCE: nothing at all like the stars on Dancing With The Stars, but I'd love to!I SING: instead of saying the words when I'm happyI CRY: over almost everything good or badI AM NOT ALWAYS: on top of the laundryI MAKE WITH MY HANDS: very wonderful baked creations oftenI WRITE: my blog every single day because it gives me a moment to myselfI CONFUSE: the names of a few friends' kidsI NEED: to go to bed earlierI SHOULD: mail a box to WillowI START: every morning with prayerI FINISH: every night by listening to an LDS General Conference talk on my iPod

And a few other thoughts for the day:

Fancy took a little vacation today to her "husband". She was ready while we were away this weekend and we hope that we haven't missed the window for her to bring us some cute little pups in two months! We're staying home this summer anyway, so why not enjoy their little delightful personalities! I can't wait!

The weather on Monday afternoon was almost 80°, warm enough to work in the flowerbed. On Tuesday, it snowed most of the day and I shivered and shook.

Mom felt the effects of her chemo much quicker this time than last. And she experienced the shock after touching something cold for the first time. We don't get that but people on chemo aren't supposed to touch cold things. Now we know why... her hands drew up tightly closed and she couldn't open them. Strange!

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Are you taller than your mother or father? an inch shorter than mom, which is shorter than short

Do you cry often during movies? At movies, during commercials on TV, when I see something beautiful, anytime is a good time for a good cry

What is your biggest pet peeve? people being destructive for no reason... destructive to property, destructive to others... that kind of thing... today. That and people who pull out in front of you like a mad man and then drive about two miles an hour.

Favorite color: RED

Favorite foods: Cream cheese anything, that's no surprise

Favorite beverage: A glass full of ice with water

Favorite cold cereal: Frosted mini-wheats

Favorite Smells: apples

Favorite time of day: Pillowtalk time in the mornings

What brand of shampoo/conditioner do you use? NeXXusMake-up products? Nicole Miller

How many pillows do you sleep with? Two for me, two for Doug, so does that mean four?

Do you play an instrument? I can play piano alone or in front of Liza, but no one else

What was the last movie you saw in the theater? Fool's Gold with MMM-MMMAtthew

What is your favorite article of clothing? my jammies

What is your dream vacation? NYC!

What was your first impression of your spouse? I thought that he was different than any guy I'd ever met!

If you were an animal what would you be? an indoor cat or a cute little Bishon Freis (I KNOW that's not how you spell it!)

What is your favorite "me- time" activity? a matinee and lunch

What is one of your weaknesses? I'm a germ freak!

What do you fix for dinner when there's nothing to fix? Breakfast

If you could live in a different decade/era which one would it be? If I could live at Tara before the war with the Ohara's, back then. If it had to be in the last 100 years, I'd say the 50s because life was so carefree and fun

What is the emotion you feel the most? Love

Do you consider yourself outgoing? ya think?

What is something you are constantly working on? Keeping up on the house

Any hidden talents? If I told, they wouldn't be hidden!

What is a word or phrase you overuse? Seriously? or NOOOOOO!??? (as in "REALLY??) or Help me!

What was the hardest thing that happened to you this past year? Mom's cancer

What is the best thing that happened to you so far this year? Aunt Max's visit

The best piece of advice you learned this past year? Do it anyway.

Who are the 6 people you are going to tag to do this survey? Anyone who wants to.

Now post the most recent pic. you have taken of yourself. Super Bowl Sunday with Carol and Jamie

Saturday, March 15, 2008

We're home, safe and sound... with a few good tales to tell... tomorrow! It was a long day for Mom, but she seemed happy to be settled in when she went to bed!

You may have seen this before but I thought it was a worthy meme. Here's a list of the AFI's Top 100 Films of all Time. I can't say that I agree with the list but that's beside the point. The meme is to highlight the ones of the 100 you've seen and then add three more to the list at the bottom that you would include, then pass it on. I'm doing it here and saying to help yourself to try it on your own blog.

1. CITIZEN KANE(1942)2. CASABLANCA (1941)3. THE GODFATHER (1972)4. GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)5. LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (1962)6. THE WIZARD OF OZ (1939)7. THE GRADUATE (1967)8. ON THE WATERFRONT (1954)9. SCHINDLER'S LIST (1993)10. SINGIN' IN THE RAIN (1952)11. IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)12. SUNSET BOULEVARD (1950)13. THE BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI (1957)14. SOME LIKE IT HOT (1959)15. STAR WARS (1977)16. ALL ABOUT EVE (1950)17. THE AFRICAN QUEEN (1951)18. PSYCHO (1960)19. CHINATOWN (1974)20. ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST (1975)21. THE GRAPES OF WRATH (1940)22. 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY (1968)23. THE MALTESE FALCON (1941)24. RAGING BULL (1980)25. E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL (1982)26. DR. STRANGELOVE (1964)27. BONNIE AND CLYDE (1967)28. APOCALYPSE NOW (1979)29. MR. SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON (1939)30. THE TREASURE OF THE SIERRA MADRE (1948)31. ANNIE HALL (1977)32. THE GODFATHER PART II (1974)33. HIGH NOON (1952)34. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (1962)35. IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT (1934) We have a copy of this and LOVE it!36. MIDNIGHT COWBOY (1969)37. THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES (1946)38. DOUBLE INDEMNITY (1944)39. DOCTOR ZHIVAGO (1965)40. NORTH BY NORTHWEST (1959)41. WEST SIDE STORY (1961)42. REAR WINDOW (1954)43. KING KONG (1933)44. THE BIRTH OF A NATION (1915)45. A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (1951)46. A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (1971)47. TAXI DRIVER (1976)48. JAWS (1975)49. SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS (1937)50. BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID (1969)51. THE PHILADELPHIA STORY (1940)52. FROM HERE TO ETERNITY (1953)53. AMADEUS (1984)54. ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT (1930)55. THE SOUND OF MUSIC (1965)56. M*A*S*H (1970)57. THE THIRD MAN (1949)58. FANTASIA (1940)59. REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE (1955)60. RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK (1981)61. VERTIGO (1958)62. TOOTSIE (1982)63. STAGECOACH (1939)64. CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND (1977)65. THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (1991)66. NETWORK (1976)67. THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE (1962)68. AN AMERICAN IN PARIS (1951)69. SHANE (1953)70. THE FRENCH CONNECTION (1971)71. FORREST GUMP (1994)72. BEN-HUR (1959)73. WUTHERING HEIGHTS (1939)74. THE GOLD RUSH (1925)75. DANCES WITH WOLVES (1990)76. CITY LIGHTS (1931)77. AMERICAN GRAFFITI (1973)78. ROCKY (1976)79. THE DEER HUNTER (1978)80. THE WILD BUNCH (1969)81. MODERN TIMES (1936)82. GIANT (1956)83. PLATOON (1986)84. FARGO (1996)85. DUCK SOUP (1933)86. MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY (1935)87. FRANKENSTEIN (1931)88. EASY RIDER (1969)89. PATTON (1970)90. THE JAZZ SINGER (1927)91. MY FAIR LADY (1964)92. A PLACE IN THE SUN (1951)93. THE APARTMENT (1960)94. GOODFELLAS (1990)95. PULP FICTION (1994)96. THE SEARCHERS (1956)97. BRINGING UP BABY (1938)98. UNFORGIVEN (1992)99. GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER (1967)100. YANKEE DOODLE DANDY (1942)

That's 68 for me. And my own three (random, the first that came to my head but aren't on the list) to add to the list:

1. Count of Monte Cristo with Jim Cavezial... some may not have liked it because it strays from the book in places, but this is a powerful movie with a magnificent message. Jim Cavezial is amazing. I LOVE this movie!2. Princess Bride with Carey Elwes and Mandy Patinkin (if you've never seen this movie, race to the store and buy it today! Don't even waste three bucks renting it, you'll watch it until you have every line memorized... seriously, anyone who's ever watched it can quote it start to finish!)3. Return to Me... one of the cutest romantic comedies of all time. You'll sob while Sarah McLauglin sings for about two minutes and then you'll be cackling and snorting at the old men. Very very cute clean love story!

Mom was a huge movie buff and it's always fascinating to my friends that I've seen movies like Guess Who's Coming to Dinner with Sidney Portier but I never saw Peter Pan or The Sound of Music. (When Carol and I went to see Hook the first time, I leaned over during the opening credits and said, "I've never seen Peter Pan, is that going to matter?" She explained the parallels through the whole story. She'll never let me live that one down!)I refuse to watch either because I'm stubborn and because Julie Andrews bugged me when I was a kid. I'm also NOT a fan of the Wizard of OZ. But, I loved, loved, loved Back Street and Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolff? Oh, and what was that movie with Joan Crawford and her sister that was an invalid and she served her a rat in the tray. Yeh, that one. Ewwwww. But, I loved that movie. Was that Who Slew Auntie Roo? I'm chuckling as I type.

Today, I just prefer romantic comedies and some of the suspense movies that Carol makes me see...like Sixth Sense and The Village and that freaky hotel room one with John Cusack that we saw last summer that still gives me the heebie-geebies. CAROL, DO NOT READ THE NEXT SENTENCE! (Secretly, I get very excited about these scary movies but I would never tell her that!) To me, a good movie with a good friend or Liza is the next best thing to a date with Doug! I'm hoping that Mom and I will catch a few matinees and DVDs during school hours over the next few months! There's a whole list that I've been wanting to see with her! We'll see how it goes! Enough said!

Courage is the art of being the only one who knows that you are afraid.

Saturday, February 09, 2008

Fool's Gold: Oh my! Carol and I went to see Fool's Gold, the new MMM-MMMMatthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson movie. It is so dang good! We were both just tickled! Not just to see MMM-MMMatthew in a fun movie. I'm still trying to get over his awful hair in We are Marshall! This movie is fun and adventurous with lots of action! We loved it! I'm so glad to say that it wasn't trashy and the language wasn't terrible. (Note: there may have been one "flashing" but I blinked and am not sure.) It was nothing like I expected. I went expecting another "How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days" type chick flick. Not at all! This movie is reminiscent of Bird on a Wire with Goldie Hawn (Kate's mom) and Mel Gibson), only better! It's every bit as much a guy movie, more so than a chick flick, I promise! Husbands and boyfriends will love it! I'll be buying it in DVD for sure! I can't wait to see it again!

I feel terrible because I can't remember where I discovered this little meme, but since it is the weekend and I've got some things to get done before the rest of the family is, I'm sharing this meme and calling it good for today's entry. If it's your meme and I blognapped it, forgive me now and thank you because it was fun!

Saturday, September 01, 2007

Memorial Day: We stayed home because we had eight little pups to care for, so we spent the night on the trampoline watching the stars, came inside and had hot cocoa because we were so cold! Very uneventful!Labor Day: Liza and Buddy are moving into their new home in between working lots of hours all weekend. We'll be helping them any way that we can. Other than that, not one single thing on the schedule other than church tomorrow morning! (BTW, here's a photo of Liza and Carol inside of Liza's completely finished and totally empty new home. Carol was the first official guest at their new home because she was the first to ring the doorbell. Carol and Liza have teased me for years that they are the best friends. So, I guess now, that's official too. Shouldn't best friends be the first to ring the doorbell at your new home?) Best moment of the summer: Meeting Willow, our cute little hippie granddaughter!Worst moment of summer: Hearing that Boyd, mom's manfriend, has cancer. Followed by my little meltdown at the Dodge Dealership in St. George on our way home from Mom's when the van broke down in 114° heat, three babes with me and Doug 400 miles away!Places I went: the Redwood Forest, California; Mesquite, Nevada; the ranch, Bear Lake and to a new world in the pages of a book filled with vampires and werewolves in Stephanie Meyers' books.People I saw: Our son, Dale; his partner, Jenn; our new baby, Willow; my Mom, my aunt from North Carolina, the whole extended Corbridge familyOn the hottest day: We spent eight hours waiting for the van to be repaired and then 8 driving home with no air-conditioning.Tanned or Burned: Not one sunburn this whole season for anyone! Wahoo! But, enough mosquito bites to make up for it. ughAmusement park or camping: Both!! But, this summer, we only got to the Celebration Center. We never pitched our tents one time. Better make up for that next year!Vegetable garden or Flowers or both: Both!! My best creation: A fun new album with a page and some journaling about each of the members of our family. It was my project as Secret Agent for September at SecretScrapper.com. I think it turned out way cute and it matches my living room!Family reunion: The best!! As always!Biggest news: Liza and Buddy built a house, President James E. Faust passed away, Boyd's colon cancer, Crandall Mine CollapseBiggest surprise: I LOVED being in our son's hippie world!!!My Best movie of summer: No ReservationsMy Best read of summer: Follow the River by Alexander ThomMy Best buy of summer: Doug's BlueTooth. (Personally, I see no need for it and it drives me crazy, but he can work and talk at the same time, so I get to visit with him a few extra minutes each day, so...whatever cranks his tractor!My Best discovery: Beadwork!I wore ____ the most: My cream colored capris with the little pockets on the sides. Love, love, loved them! My summer shoes: these little beauties, which I picked up for a song but they've been so fun and casual and perfect for my ubber-flat feet which prefer being barefoot 24/7!Anxious or depressed to see summer end: I was super sad to see the summer end but now that the babes are into their second week of school and life is getting normal again, I'm loving that the house is clean most of the day, that bedtime is earlier, that dinner is earlier again. I'm enjoying my new freetime and I even had the piano moved this week so that I can start thinking about decorating, cooking and shopping for the holidays, fall activities, upcoming birthdays and so forth! So, after the depression came "Bring it on!"

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Liza's new house is DONE! I'm off to see it one more time! So, this morning, a quick little meme and photo from high school!

Mom's manfriend, Boyd, is having surgery for his colon cancer today. ETA:she just called and said that the surgery is over. He's in recovery now. They'll know more when the doctor comes in. I wish I was there to hold Mom's hand but she seems to be handling this all very well.

Doug's favorite TV show is back on the air. TiVo recorded it or we'd have not known. "Living with Ed", the perfect television show for a granola man, such as mine. I laugh more at Doug watching it than I do at the show, for certain!

I got a call last night at 10:30 from Josh Groban. Actually, it was Carol and her daughter calling me from the concert when Josh sang, "You raise me up." Oh, I love that man's voice!

My visiting teacher dropped by a plate of hot chocolate chip cookies last night. I love having wonderful visiting teachers!

I received an email suggesting that every home in America display the American flag on September 11. I love this idea.

Who was your best friend? Colby in my freshman year, but we went to different schools. (We still email! She's awesome!) Phyllis in my sophomore year. Kevin in my junior year. My senior year was all about Doug!

What kind of car did you drive? a brand new 75 Omega, white leather seats, red exterior and an eight-track stereo. I thought I was all that and a bag of chips!

It's Friday night. Where were you? On a date, at a dance, out with friends.

Were you considered a flirt? Uh, I'm thinking...yes. ;)

Were you in the band, orchestra, or choir? No, but I cheered them on at the games.

Were you a nerd? Not at all.

Who was your favorite teacher? Ken McMeans, my french teacher. We were great friends after school too!

What was your school mascot? Mustangs

Did you go to the Prom? Yep, with John, who'd been home from his LDS mission for exactly three days. Talk about culture shock.

Did you have a job your senior year? I worked in a Kodak film developing lab until the spring when I was hired in a portrait studio as a photographer. I'll have to blog about that some day.

What year did you graduate? 1976

Would you/have you go to your class reunion reunion? Not for love or money. I have no desire to. Never have. I had lots of friends at school, but most of my close friends went to different schools or were older. I mostly dated older boys from my LDS ward or work and I spent my senior year in a long distance relationship with Doug. I could count on one hand the number of contacts I've had with people from my high school since I married Doug. So, really, no need to attend any reunions!

I reread these answers and it made me realize that I loved my High School experience, was very involved and active in so many things but I really have no ties to it today. I've seen some adults who continue to live their lives as though they were still in high school, keeping the friends, socially always trying to fit in and be in the in crowd. For me, high school was all about getting it over with so that I could move on into the part of life that I wanted most - family. I couldn't wait to be married, couldn't wait to have babies, couldn't wait to live the life I'd always dreamed of as a little girl! For me, it was just a step in the right direction.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Keeping it simple this morning. A big day ahead of us. We're going to run over to the schools and see the classrooms, possibly say hello to the teachers and have a little fun this afternoon. First, here's ZJ's response to "You need a tissue."

And then, a little meme.

Yourself: ContentYour partner: amazingYour hair: needs helpYour mother: my friendYour father: worries meYour favorite item: my iPod, these daysYour dream last night: I don't think I had a dream, which is very rare.Your favorite drink: ice water with lots of iceYour dream car: probably a Toyota SequoiaYour dream home: One of my first blogs described it in detail. It was a blogging challenge. Not one that I would ever have even if I won the lottery but it's all the things that I love in the best homes I've ever seen.The room you are in now: My scrapbook roomYour fear: losing someone that I love and believe it or not, fliesWhere you want to be in 10 yrs: still in love, still a Mom, a grandma to a few more babies, successful in whatever I'm attempting at the time, on the right track spiritually, happy.Who you hung out with last night: Denise... until 2:30 AM! We played games and gabbed.You're not: Tall enoughWish list items: Big: A weekend getaway with Doug, a new laptop, a new monitor. Small: a Macintosh Apple candle, cute dangly earrings, paint... always paint.Last thing you did: cuddled with the babes in my bed.What are you wearing: a nightgown.Favorite weather: the morning after a nice, beautiful, winter snowstormFavorite book: These is My Words, Follow the River, my scripturesLast thing you ate: the most sour grapes I've ever tasted in my life!Your life: is full of wonderful people and many blessings!Your mood: still sleepy. Gee, I wonder why.Your best friend: in alphabetical order after Doug: Barbie, Carol, Connie, Denise, Liza, my MomWhat are you thinking about right now: I think I'll take the babes out for a last summer day lunch or picnic.Your car: Needs a good detailing.What are you are doing at this moment: besides blogging, laundryRelationship status: Ooo-la-la, in love and married to my Mr. Right!What's on TV: Nada, haven't turned it on todayLast time you laughed: Several times last night with Denise!

Use caution...if you can't be a good example, then you may end up being a horrible warning.

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Thank you for all of the sweet emails about Boyd! Your prayers will be appreciated.

Thirty years ago today, Elvis died. Elvis was a huge part of my childhood. My dad was told often that he looked a lot like Elvis in his younger years. My mother was an Elvis fan. A huge fan. We had velvet Elvis pictures in our home. Mom had an Elvis statue in the living room. The only Christmas album that I ever head was Elvis' "Blue Blue Christmas". As a little girl, I wondered if, one day, Mom would end up marrying Elvis. Mom received sympathy cards when he died. I can sing every word to every song and always turn the radio up when I hear his voice. Today, for fun, a little Elvis/music Meme.

Are you an Elvis fan? Did I have a choice?

What's your favorite Elvis song? Suspicious Minds or the one I'm listening to

Did you ever watch an Elvis movie? Loved them all! Watching Elvis movies was an event at our home. Girl Happy and Double Trouble were my favorites. I can't even remember them today but I watched them everytime they reran on television as a kid!)

What is your favorite music genre? I couldn't choose, if I had to. I absolutely love classical music. I'm a big country fan. I've always loved pop music until the past few years and now I am more selective. Love Sheryl Crow, K.T. Tunstall, love Kate Havnevik and Leigh Nash. I love Maroon Five, but Liza and Buddy have edited my CDs so that I would still like them. (Apparently they have a few songs that I'm not allowed to hear.) I love New Age music! David Lanz, Windham Hill, Lee Retinior, Mannheim Steamroller and movie scores/soundtracks. The music to Braveheart and Last of the Mohicans is amazing! My favorite genre depends on my mood and what I'm doing today! I am even an opera fan when a certain mood hits me.

Is there any music that you really do not care for? I absolutely can not listen to Jazz music. One song and I've had enough. Hmmm. I wonder why I feel so strongly about that?

Have you ever had a serious crush on a musician? I absolutely loved Donny Osmond when I was a kid. We are the same age. I was able to see him in Miami when I was 13, right when his song "Puppy Love" was the number one hit in the nation. My heart still goes pitter-patter at the thought of him! And much to my daughter and husband's regret, I am a huge Michael Bolton fan.

Have you ever had a poster of a musician on your wall? This James Taylor poster was my first. But, I had others from Donny Osmond to Grand Funk Railroad. Remember, I'm the child of a 60s hippie. ;)

Who's concert would you pay, if money were no issue, $1000 to see? If money were no object, I'd pay anything to see Barbra Streisand, Neil Diamond or Josh Groban. On the opposite end of the spectrum, you couldn't pay me $1000 to sit through a Rolling Stones concert. I do not like Mick Jagger.

What's the best concert you've ever attended? Definitely Collin Raye about ten years ago. WOW! He was entertaining and fun, I loved his voice and he just gave and gave and gave of himself to the audience. He has an amazing voice and an even better personality.

Is there an album that you've worn out overplay? I, literally, wore out the Eagles Greatest Hits in 8 track, cassette and am on my third CD. (Another great reason for the iPod!) Love, love, love the Eagles! Hotel California, Take it to the Limit, One of these Nights! YES! Another CD that I've worn out is Firefall's Greatest Hits. Similar to Eagles in style, I love their harmonizing! Phantom of the Opera (with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman) would be the other one that I've nearly worn out over the years!

Is there a little bit of a secret rock star in you? Absolutely not! I love singing along with the iPod, but I'm so not a singer! The big kids turned the radio off when I sang along, especially to Michael Bolton! (Was it him or me that they didn't want to hear?) My dad was the rock star in our family. He sang, played the guitar and even had his own band until I was in my teens. I'll leave that fame for him. I'm a closet singer, not a stage performer! But that doesn't mean that it's rare that you'll not hear music in the background wherever I am!

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Before this entry, I'm asking for some good thoughts and prayers. This heat is incredible. For some reason, our van has been having little issues since Monday and I keep blaming everything on the fact that it has been over 110 degrees every day but one. Tonight, the check engine light came on and the mechanic said that it sounds like we may need a new fuel pump before we go home. I have to take the van in and pray that the problem is something like a plugged fuel line which will cost $65 to repair instead of the pump which will be over $500. I'm so not amused. This is the fourth trip in a row to Mesquite that we've had major van repairs. Go figure. All I know that getting stuck in the desert heat with three babes and no husband does not sound like something I want to experience. Winter was bad enough! Another blog meme today, soon after the last, but, hey, I'm on vacation! ;) Sorry about the font sizes. Typepad would NOT cooperate for me and the laptop and I aren't on the best of terms today! By the way, HOW did people live here in the desert without air conditioning? This place is a literal oven! We're having a wonderful time but this place is H-O-T!! The ONLY way I could live here would be if we had a pool in the backyard!

What zodiac sign are you? Libra

Do you regularly read a horoscope? Nope If not, why not?Two reasons, I only read the obits online , wedon't take the paper. AND because I don't believe in it at all. If I have questions about my life, prayer works better for me.

Married or single?Very, very married and very, very happy!

What do you like to do with your spare time?play with the babes, Doug, Liza, Carol, Denise, Connie. Read. Blog. Go to the movies. CLEAN!

Is your life worse, better or about the same as you imagined it would be someday?VERY different than I'd imagined but most definitely better than I dreamed.

Is your family larger or smaller than you expected?ha! It's exactly double what I thought it would be!

What do you collect? I inherited a beautiful Hummel Collections. I collect Willow Tree figurines, Nativities and St. Nick ornaments.

What are three major turning points in your life?a decision to stop associating with a group of kids in junior high school, marrying Doug, Sept. 11 (that's the day that changed the world for the babes and they ended up with us

What do you think your greatest talents are?I'm told that I have a love for people and life that radiates. Does that count as a talent? I'm creative. I'm a great cook and a good decorater. I'm a good friend.

What do you think your greatest weaknesses are? I'm so impatient! My germaphobia makes me and other's crazy (or gives them something to laugh about.) If I don't write it down, I can't remember a thing!

What books have affected you the most?The scriptures, obviously. As far as affecting me, Seven Habits by Steven Covey made a huge impact on my life years ago. Confessions of an Organized Housewife was a huge help to me when I was a young mother and housewife. A book that's probably out of print and so amazingly obsolete in today's world of thinking, Fascinating Womanhood. As a young bride, having seen 8 divorces in my childhood, upclose and personal, this book was eye-opening. Novels...LOVED These is My Words. Shockingly to most who know me, Bridges of Madison County. (Doug's my Richard Kincaid.) Loved Gone with the Wind. (What southern girl doesn't?) I'm almost done with "Eat Cake" and really relate to it. hmmmm.

Are you left- or right- brained?200% right. No question.

What magazines do you subscribe to, if any?LDS magazines, the Ensign and The Friend. I've cancelled all subscriptions to all mags except Real Simple.I do buy A Taste of Home on occasion. I pick up People at the grocery stand if A) I'm traveling and B) I like who's on the cover. Otherwise, I read them at the doctor's office.

What’s playing on your C.D. player/iPod right now?I just discovered Leigh Nash, who's a lot like my favorite of late, Kate Havnevik. Love Reba McEntyre and Collin Raye, older music. Michael Bolton (which drives Doug crazy.) My most played 25 on my iPod has a few song's of the Grey's Anatomy 2 soundtrack,Josh Groban, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts and Toby Keith. Does that mean I'm mostly country!? I also LOVE Mormon Tabernacle Choir Showtunes when I need to just be calm. My favorite iTunes playlist is titled, "Rest" and has Kate, Josh, Lorenna McKennitt and David Lanz, Norah Jones.

What are some of your accomplishments you’re most proud of?Being married for over thirty years and still being gaga in love with my husband. Being a mom to six amazing children. Having a home where all who enter know that they are welcome to come and be fed and uplifted (and I don't mean just in my kitchen). Teaching thousands of women (home management/organization and scrapbooking/journaling) over the years and knowing that I've somehow influenced them for good in some way matters. Being Contributing Editor for the magazine or PTA president were more titles than accomplishments. Things like that don't hold a candle to the things in life that really matter!

What are some things you still want to accomplish? Personally, I want to learn how to crochet. (I keep trying.) I would love to be a great jewelry maker! I want to look like Selma Hayek, but everytime it happens, I wake up. I want to sing like Barbra Streisand or Celine Dion, but no one wants to hear me practice. I want to know the scriptures like I know how to cook! I want to be the best, wife, mother and friend that I can be!

What kind of athletic activity do you like? Walking, swimming, hiking, cross-country skiing and biking.

I believe that I've done this meme before and it's interesting to do it again since we change every day and hopefully for the better!

The important thing is this: To be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.

Morning person or night person? Both depending on what's on the calendar

What time do you wake up? the alarm goes off at 5:45

Snooze button lover? HATE the snooze button, why torture yourself? it's on music and we wake up slowly

What time do you get out of bed? 6:00

Coffee, Cappaccino or Juice? Juice, I don't drink coffees

Breakfast or not? when I'm being good, I try reeeeally hard to eat a real breakfast

Morning routine or wherever the morning takes you? routine, for sure! otherwise, the day would get busy and things wouldn't get done

Make your bed or not? as I/we roll out of it

Morning perker-upper or calm and quiet? i like it quiet until the babes are awake, it's the only silence I ever get!

Favorite thing about morning: the early morning sounds in the summertime...sprinklers, birds, voices of early morning walkers. In the wintertime, peeking out the window and discovering fresh or falling snow!

Combine 1 cup strawberries and 2/3 cup water in saucepan. Simmer together for about 3 minutes. Blend together sugar, cornstarch and 1/3 cup cold water then add to the boiling strawberry mixture. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Cool. Spread the softened cream cheese into the bottom of a baked, cooled pie crust. (You can use a regular crust, a graham cracker crust or an Oreo crust is tasty!) Place the strawberries on top of the cream cheese and pour the strawberry glaze over them. Refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours). Serve with whipped cream and garnish with strawberries, if desired. MMMMMM!

Friday, May 18, 2007

I came home from an afternoon with Liza and discovered these beauties at my front door. Someone loves me!

We got the garden planted today! I was too busy working to think about taking any photos! Bad, Sophia, Bad! I also got some beautiful new flowers out front in my flower bed, which I can hardly wait until next year to see. They look so much better the second year! It was so hot out today and we're debating on sleeping out on the trampoline tonight!

Gracie's report after school. "Stephanie moved today. Her daddy got a new job and they couldn't wait until school was out. They have to move now. I'm so sad. I'm going to cry and cry and cry until I forget about it ANNNNNND I have to return my library book next week!" How's that for a random 8-year old thought?!

Liza and I went shopping today. We tried on about fifteen things between the two of us and came out empty handed. Good for the wallet. Bad for the closet. Remind me to never buy anything for Liza to wear. To have so much in common, we sure don't dress alike.

I shared a little meme about your home and wanted to answer the questions myself this loverly Friday evening!

Your home meme:

Ranch, Rambler, 2 story, More: Ranch with finished basement

Brick, Rock, Siding, Log: Siding

Garage attached or detached: Attached

Number of Bedrooms: five

Number of bathrooms: two

Best extra in your home: Everyone says that our back yard is a dream. We like it.

Favorite room in your home: I love the kitchen, the living room, the scrapbook room, our bedroom!

Least favorite room: Laundry. I hate laundry and the room!

Last room you purchased something for: Living room - photo tomorrow!

Worst piece of furniture: We need new bedroom furniture

Style (Country, Old Word, Pottery Barn, Primitive, Traditional, Hand-me Downs): Living room is Old World, Kitchen is more primitive, Bedroom more traditional, Family room a cross between primitive and traditional

Clean and Organized, Cluttered and Chaotic, Clean but lived in: Clean and organized to the point of obsession, says a few close friends

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

A fun little meme and two things that made me laugh today. I went outside to jump on the trampoline today with the babes for a while. They wanted me to do a flip like them. Uh-huh. So, I told them that I'd do a "pike", where you split up in the air and touch your toes. I did the pike and when I came down on the bounce, ZJ was going down too. It sent her up in the air and she bounced on her back, then her other side, then her bottom, and on the fourth bounce, she finally got her control back. She said, "Wooooooooo!!! I went on a vacation!" Maybe you had to be there but we thought it was hysterical!

At the Book Club tonight, the hostess brought out this warm and delicious lemon bread, followed by a platter of Pepperidge Farm cookies, which she announced were the "Default Dessert" in case anyone didn't want the bread. I thought it was humorous!

Monday, April 30, 2007

What to say, what to say? Monday, Monday. A little rambling tonight. First, Fancy's acting like she is ready to become a mama again. VERY soon. She's not as big as she was last litter, so we're guessing less pups, which is fine because seven was an awful large first litter! While I was on the phone to my mom tonight, I could, literally, see her tummy just rolling and kicking and dancing about. We're just praying for a healthy litter and mama in a few days! I apologize ahead of time because the next several weeks will include lots of photos of puppies because, hey... photos of babies, puppies and kittens always bring a smile!

First layer: Mix cake, melter butter and 1 egg. Pat into bottom of pan. Second layer: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar and 2 eggs. Pour on top of first layer. Bake at 350° for 40 minutes or until browned. Cool and cut into squared. (Top with fresh strawberries in glaze, for an extra treat!)

Oh, and last, I'm asked often how to print your blog. I save my blog on the first of each month by republishing it in the Typepad one column format under the design tab. Put it in one column, then Print. It will print backwards, which is the only thing that I don't care for. (In other words, you read the last date of the month first and then down to the first date of the month, just as the month appears on your typepad screen.) By having one column, it saves much paper. It's an awesome way to journal because you have photos along with! Simple! Don't forget, though, after you print, to go back to the two or three column format and republish again in your normal design. Hope that helps!

Friday, April 27, 2007

Dale finally sent me another picture of Willow. Waiting is not one of my stronger virtues! I'd only seen sleeping pictures and he keeps telling me that she got Jenn's great big eyes. He's not kidding. She's a cutie. I can't wait to see her smile! The heck with smiling. I can't wait to hold her!

Mom and I had a great laugh at her little absent-mindedness on the phone last night. She called to let me know how her terminilly-ill friend/mother-figure is doing after yet, another surgery. We talked a few minutes and then said goodnight. Five minutes later, the phone rang. She was cackling. She'd hung up the phone, gone to the bathroom and then double-checked that the phone was hung up properly, in case her friend called from the hospital. She couldn't find the phone anywhere. She retraced her steps from the time we had hung up five minutes before. She found the phone... in the refridgerator. (And Doug wonders why I'm so ditzy! I came by it naturally, Babe!)

I borrowed this SCATTERGORIES off of Peg's blog. Fun! Use your own first initial for the letter.

Combine the first six ingredients. Spread on a bread slice. Top with another slice. Melt butter in frypan and cook sandwich on each side until golden brown.

It's been a most lazy Friday. I even got in a nap! Denise surprised me with lunch, which was nice! The babes played with friends all afternoon. I weeded a bit in the sun and read a lot. Quick and easy dinner. Weekends are wonderful!

There is no obstacle too great, no challenge too difficult, if we have faith.Gordon B. Hinckley

Sunday, February 25, 2007

I didn't care enough to actually watch the Oscars and I hadn't seen any of the nominated movies this year, but in honor of the Oscars, I’ve created this meme. This week’s blog challenge. (Some questions, we’ve answered before but hey, who doesn’t love the movies?!) It should be a fun one to read and revisit some of the movies that we all love!

Name your all-time top five favorite movies. French Kiss, Gone with the Wind, Fools Rush In, Sleepless in Seattle, You’ve got Mail, While you were Sleeping

Friday, February 09, 2007

1. About that stomach flu, Quayd's turn.2. About Oprah's show on The Secret... AMAZING. I feel a future blog entry coming on.3. About this winter. This week has felt like spring and when I look at our mountains and compare to previous winters, it's frightening and sad. They are usually covered with several feet deep of the beautiful white stuff. I'm holding onto hope that we're going to get at least one real storm (Meaning with at least one sighting of those big beautiful snowman-building fluffy kind of flakes) before spring.

A little meme: If you were a ____, what would you be?

A vegetable - a potato because they’re so versatile!

An animal - a cat because they are cozy and chillin most of the time

A fruit - I already am according to a few friends. Oh, wait, that’s a nut.

A color - RED, like that is a surprise

A household object - a piano that makes beautiful music all the time

An article of clothing - a warm, furry long robe

A Drink - A Diet Coke. Gee, another hard one.

A famous person - Oprah. She’s wise, she’s generous, she’s got it together in most aspects of life. (I said most because I want her to get married!)

A Film Character - Melanie Hamilton from Gone with the Wind because she’s without guile

A cartoon Character - I hate cartoons, but I’d have to say Garfield because he’s Garfield

A Car - a Red Ford Mustang because they are zippy, cute and fun

A city - Salt Lake City because it has the mountains, culture, religion, food and excitement, but still feels safe like a small town in it’s own way

A country - Only in the USA

A mythical Creature - the tooth fairy, does that count?

A chocolate bar - Symphony with almonds and toffee. (Is there anything better?)

A book - My scriptures, with all of the years of thoughts, markings and notes that I’ve added for years

A sport - Cross-country skiing

A word - Contentment (that pretty much covers it all)

One of your family - Any one of Doug’s aunts, they are my heroes

One of your friends - Totally not who anyone would expect, I’d say Toni Jones, who died in a car accident years ago, but she had it together and was a tremendous example to me. I adored her.

A funny: My good friend Sandy sent this a few days ago and am still laughing.

Good Housekeeping Tip Another Maxine Tip... Always keep several get well cards on the mantle..... so if unexpected guests arrive, they will think you've been sick and unable to clean.

Linda's White Chili - seriously, the best chili I've ever tasted

Season one bag chicken breast with Italian dressing, garlic salt and pepper and Crock pot all night. In the morning, add:

Wednesday, January 10, 2007

I spent three and a half hours in a dental chair this afternoon with a bite block in my mouth. Five shots and lots of nitrous kept me out of pain. Tonight, I’m feeling it. Even with the prescription that the dentist gave me. Bigtime. Tomorrow, I get to go back for Round 2. So, before I call it a night, I'm answering this fun meme and sharing one photo of the surprise that Gracie had waiting for me when I returned from the dentist. The beads are threaded backwards, "I {heart} you Mom {heart}I thinkt you look buteful." It’s in her own spelling, it's huge, and, this necklace is a treasure! She didn’t have any beads with a period on them, so she tied knots for periods. I was impressed. This little necklace was the bright spot in my otherwise grey afternoon! I'll have it on when she wakes up in the morning! Dinner tonight, cream of wheat. One other bright spot for tomorrow, there’s a huge snow strom heading our way! Happiness!

A - Aphrodisiac. What turns you on? That I care to share... awesome houses, stores filled with home decor, great stereo sound

B - BFF. Who’s your best friend? I’ve got three best girlfriends and one daughter who is my best friend but Doug is my bestest best friend!

J - {dream} Job. What would you do? Just what I’m doing... be a wife, mom and friend.

K -Kitchen Companion. Most used item in your kitchen? Bosch Mixer and the icemaker... there’s that Diet Coke again.

L- Life is incomplete without. . . ? My family

M - Mc. . . What would you "Mc"? McMe

N - Natural or dyed? All-natural

O - Outrageous Outfit. What’s hiding your closet that you’re dying to wear? My Liz Claiborne denim dress that I’ve just about worn out. I wish it would last forever!

P - Pet Peeve. What makes you absolutely crazy? Watching unclean looking people prepare my food. Bathrooms without trash baskets near the door. People who pull out in front of you and then drive five miles an hour. Flies. Oh, I could go on and on with this one.

Q - Quote. Share some inspiration. Another one that I love, "Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it."

R - Restaurant you give rave reviews Firehouse or CostaVida

S - Starbucks order. Hot Cocoa, if I ever went to one but so far, I’ve never been inside a Starbucks.

T - Television. What keeps you glued to the couch? Grey’s Anatomy or National Geographic.

U - Ultimate Vacation Destination - New York City, baby!

V - Virtual Babe Name. What’s your online ID? ~sbdoodler~

W - Wonder Woman. What woman leaves you in awe? A friend who I’ve known for 25 years, Cheryl. She’s completely amazing. She has one of the most genuinely pure hearts that I’ve ever known, she’s an amazing teacher, a loyal friend, faithful and a wonderful example. I adore her.

X - eX - cited!

Y - Youth in a bottle. What keeps you feeling young at heart? My three babes, great music, living with a romantic man!

Thursday, December 28, 2006

This may well be the longest list I’ve ever answered. Here’s a little meme or blog challenge that I came upon and thought it was a good one for this time of the year when we are thinking about goals and what we want to do with our lives in the upcoming year. I’ve highlighted the items on the list that I have done in my lifetime and added a short comment after each. Some may even surprise those closest to me. Others are a given. And I'm praying that the format of this is legible because I'm not going to redo it!

1. Bought everyone in the bar a drink

02. Swam with wild dolphins

03. Climbed a mountain - lots of them!

04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive - taken other sports cars though

05. Been inside the Great Pyramid

06. Held a tarantula - Why would I want to?

07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone - enough said!

08. Said “I love you’ and meant it - every day

09. Hugged a tree - remember I have a hippie son and am married to a granola husband!

10. Bungee jumped - no one will do it with me!

11. Visited Paris - Does the one in Las Vegas count?

12. Watched a lightning storm at sea - Raised in Florida, remember

13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise - my first date with Doug

14. Seen the Northern Lights - they actually appeared in Northern Utah two years ago

15. Gone to a huge sports game - the Miami Dolphins

16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa

17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables - almost every summer

18. Touched an iceberg

19. Slept under the stars - more times than I can count

20. Changed a baby’s diaper - more times than I want to remember

21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon - this year!!

22. Watched a meteor shower - every August for 25 years

23. Gotten drunk on champagne

24. Given more than you can afford to charity - and blessed for it constantly

25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope - too fun!

26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment - that’s a whole entry in itself

27. Had a food fight - not my favorite memory

28. Bet on a winning horse

29. Asked out a stranger - blame it on high school stupidity

30. Had a snowball fight - please pass one right now!!

31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can - no comment!

32. Held a lamb - petting zoo

33. Seen a total eclipse - in the late 60s... we stayed inside with the curtains closed so that we didn’t go blind... in the 90s using a cool little science project that the kids made in school

34. Ridden a roller coaster - every chance I get

35. Hit a home run

36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking - more times than I could mention

37. Adopted an accent for an entire day - Liza and I do this on a regular basis... it drives everyone crazy38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment - every day!

39. Had two hard drives for your computer - two computers ago... and it still didn’t work!

40. Visited all 50 states - almost 40 though

41. Taken care of someone who was drunk - don’t want to remember, but I have.

42. Had amazing friends - and some are reading this list right now

43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country - A Canadian hippie on their side of Niagra Falls

44. Watched wild whales

45. Stolen a sign - I didn’t do it intentionally

46. Backpacked in Europe

47. Taken a road-trip- every chance we get

48. Gone rock climbing - I’ve watched many times and I actually hooked up to the gear and did it up a grain mill

49. Midnight walk on the beach - more times than I can count. A must for everyone in their lifetime!

50. Gone sky diving - on my to do list!

51. Visited Ireland

52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love - no comment

53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them. Dr. Maya Angelou in Chicago IL!

54. Visited Japan

55. Milked a cow - actually milked 82 of them, many times the first summer we were married

56. Alphabetized your CDs - and what’s wrong with that?

57. Pretended to be a superhero - I have a nine year old boy, remember?

58. Sung karaoke - you don’t want to hear about it or hear it!

59. Lounged around in bed all day - more times that I should confess to

116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol - didn’t like it, but yes, I have

117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild - we actually have a spot up the canyon where we look for them. VERY tasty, but I wouldn’t pick them without my hippie son there to tell me they were good and safe

118. Ridden a horse - more than I drove a car that first summer we were married

119. Had major surgery - hysterectomy, oovarectomy, appendectomy and that one plastic one that I keep a secret

120. Had a snake as a pet

121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon

122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours - while in the hospital with pneumonia and two years ago with pneumonia

123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states

124. Visited all 7 continents

125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days

126. Eaten kangaroo meat

127. Eaten sushi - okay, I ate the rice around it and the one without the fish. Does that count?

128. Had your picture in the newspaper - many times in school years and a couple as an adult

129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about - if you count missionary work, yes. Also, a few other situations that should remain unmentioned

130. Gone back to school - and want to go back again!

131. Parasailed - LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!

132. Petted a cockroach - No, but I had one inside my nylons AFTER I put them on in Florida once

133. Eaten fried green tomatoes ... once was enough

134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey - Does this make me illiterate?

135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read. Several... should have just read them back then!

138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language - many times when a foreigner needed help or directions

139. Been elected to public office

140. Written your own computer language

141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream - every time we take a few days off at the ranch or the Bear Lake. Every time I hear the babes say “I love you, Mommy” and every time Doug gives me the “look” that says we’re soulmates

142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care - not personally, but watched my best friend have to and it’s not something that I wish for anyone

143. Built your own PC from parts

144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you - does being published for six years in scrapbooking magazines count?

145. Had a booth at a street fair - selling Cross-stitched pillows when Liza was just a baby. It was called the Pillow Case

Monday, November 13, 2006

I’ve not done a meme in a while and thought it was about time. Besides that, not much to share today. I cleaned the house, waited for the DirectTV guy, waited for Liza, waited for Doug, waited for the laundry to be dry. Seriously. An uneventful day at the Corbridge’s, other than the antique window that fell and shattered. I was not amused. On the other hand, the replacement DVR/TiVo is awesome. Doug came home early. A friend dropped by. Two fun talks with my mom. I worked a bit on Amy’s BPS My Word journaling class assignments. A good day, just a casual day.

one.

I am content.two.Doug knows me bestthree. I feel much better this week than I did last week.four. the most important thing in my life is my faith and family five. I always carry I my cellphone and my plannersix. I think winter is the most wonderful time of the yearseven. I’m at my happiest when I’m with family and friendseight. on a Monday morning, you can find me cleaning my weekend house and doing laundrynine. my favorite food ingredient is I cream cheeseten. my eyes are big, brown and very telling eleven. my favorite material possession my cameratwelve. to relax, I like to watch a movies with Doug or play cards with Liza or Carolthirteen. the town I live in is small and rural, just the way I like itfourteen. my worst habit is not getting enough sleepfifteen. my guilty pleasure is Grey’s Anatomysixteen. when I look at someone, the first thing I see is their eyesseventeen. I think winter snowstorms are beautiful eighteen. I can live without mustardnineteen. I wish I had more hours in the daytwenty. my life is

full of love and happiness

Oh, I made the cake mix treat recipe (see: Eager) that I posted a few days ago. OH MY HECK!! VERY rich. VERY tasty. One tip... chill the cake balls before dipping them in the almond bark. Seriously, OH MY HECK!

Saturday, September 16, 2006

I am weak. I had told myself that I’d watch the entire season of Gray’s before I allowed myself to see the extras. Then. I got to the "End of the World" episode, the one with the bomb. So much for that. I had to watch the commentary. Could. Not. Wait. What great TV. Carol called this morning, "What ya doing?" And yes, she’s right, I’m out of control... my answer was, "Soaking in the tub, watching Grey’s Anatomy." (Ya gotta love those portable DVD players!)

We woke up to the most gorgeous day with snow in the mountains. Grey and rainy, but that snow up on those hills...WOW! Spectacular! I took my camera out for drive to the south end of the valley but didn’t have enough time to stop and take some photos. More snow is expected tonight, so I’ll surely take advantage of the time tomorrow after church!

My favorite comment of the day: While driving along the highway, I said to the babes, who were just doing their own thing and in their own worlds, "Do you know how much Mommy loves you guys?" Gracie, without hesitation, answered, "More than a bathtub." Where that came from, I have no idea but I liked it. I love baths and she knows it. So, maybe that was her reasoning. Who knows? But, at least they know that they are loved.

I’ve been scrapping today. I had to finish up a layout using the new Penelope’s Potpourri line and then I’m anxious to play with some of the latest Basic Grey goodies! Still deciding what photos to use, but the paper is calling my name! Will share when it’s done.

And last but not least today... a little blog meme from April.- Search your blog archive.- Find your 24th post- Find the 7th sentence- Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions- Tag five people to do the same.

Then, I knew that it was time to stop dipping my feet in the water and take the plunge! "

This entry was just weeks after I’d begun blogging, explaining why I feel that blogging is so awesome!. Today, after rereading that entry, my feelings are only intensified. Blogging has become a regular and anticipated part of my every day. I realize that some days I say nothing worth the few moments that it takes to read it and others, I wax on and on about nothing but there are some entries that I feel are important, meaningful and have value. I’m hoping that some day, my big kids and the babes will take the time to read my thoughts and know how much I loved them, how much I loved life and how important my faith was to me. If my blog were never read by another person from this day on, it would still be worth the time and effort that it takes to write it, if they captured that! On the other hand, I’ve developed some wonderful real-life and cyber relationships this past year as a result of blogging. Blogging is meaningful, has purpose, is fun and rewarding... it doesn’t get much better than that! Enough said!

Friday, August 11, 2006

Heather tagged me and I LOVE tags! So, I'm it! This is the third time I've tried posting this with pictures and TP is not being very agreeable at all tonight!

Forgive the format but I don't dare try again! GRRR!

1. If you could build a house anywhere, where would it be?

It would be right here in Cache Valley. We’ve actually been talking about where we’d like to go next, as we drive around looking at lots and homes. Either right here in Smithfield or into another little community towards the south end of the valley. (It’d be 20 minutes less time to drive to Salt Lake City!)

2. What's your favorite article of clothing?

My robe. A silky one in the summer and a big, furry one in the winter, always with sleeves and always long to the ground.

3. Favorite physical feature of the opposite sex?

Love those eyes! But they have to look right back into my eye!

4. What's the last CD that you bought?

The last kids DVD was Shaggy Dog while on our trip for the babes to watch in the van. The last CD was Tim McGraw’s Greatest Hits 2. LOVE IT! The last DVD for myself was an oldie, "Ed TV", which I bought to replace the video that we’ve worn out.

5. Where's your favorite place to be?

Next to Doug, wherever that happens to be.

6. Where is your least favorite place to be?

In line at the post office or bank.

7. What's your favorite place to be massaged? On my back, s

o softly that it gives me goose bumps. Firmly, on my feet with tons of lotion!

8. Strong in mind or strong in body?

Without a doubt, strong in mind. "Hard-headed", some would say!

9. What time do you wake up in the morning?

Around six when Doug gets up. I don’t get up until 6:30ish.

10. What is your favorite kitchen appliance?

Definitely my Bosch Mixer.

11. What makes you really angry?

Deliberate destructive behavior... anything from breaking something because you are being careless or not taking care of it to self-destruction or doing something that you know you’ll only live to regret later.

12. If you could play any instrument, what would it be?

Piano. It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, my entire life. I took lessons for two years and can pick out a tune but would never ever play for anyone other than my own listening pleasure... because for anyone who heard it, it wouldn’t be pleasure!

13. Favorite color?

RED! I’m just a red kinda gal.

14. Which do you prefer...van

!

15. Do you believe in an afterlife?

With every fiber of my being.16. Favorite children's book? The Secret Garden by Frances Burnett Hodges

17. What is your favorite season? Fall...I am watching the temps drop each morning and anxiously awaiting the cool crisp mornings, the changes of the colors and then the holidays that follow! It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

The ability to slow down the clock! I wouldn’t mind that remote used in the movie CLICK if it didn’t have all the rules that went along with it!

20. If you have a tattoo, what is it?

Are you serious??

21. Can you juggle?

I can juggle six children, a husband, church callings, a clean home, family and friends. Does that count?!

22. The one person from your past that you wish you could go back and talk to?

My Grannie or my friend Toni. I’d love to ask Grannie so many questions that I’ve wondered about over the years since she passed away. And Toni, well, I wish that we could just have one more good time together where I could tell her goodbye and let her know what an impact she had on my life.

23. What's your favorite day?

During TV season, it’s Thursday, no doubt. This next season is going to be even better with Survivor and Grey’s Anatomy on Thursday nights!

24. What's in the trunk of your car?

A big clear Rubbermaid storage bin holding jumper cables, a few car things like oil and stuff, a bungee cord, some emergency picnic things like plasticwear, cups, babywipes and a kite. Outside of the bin is five blankets for emergencies (or more than that, we usually take a few into the theater) and two giant pillows.

25. Which do you prefer, sushi or hamburger?

I’ve tried Sushi. I’ll have a bigole hamburger off the grill with cheese, bbq sauce, mayo, lettuce, tomato and a side of fresh fruit salad, please.

And now, if you've not been tagged yet, you're IT!

Be not afraid of life. Believe that life is worth living and your belief will help create the fact.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

My sweet friend, Katie sent me this Meme yesterday and I thought it would be a fun blog challenge for the week! Thanks, Katie!

FIRST NAME? Sophia

WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Sophia Loren

WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? A few days ago when I rewatched the finale of Grey's Anatomy again

DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Love it!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Smoked turkey or Black Forest Ham

DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Six. Three big ones 23-27 and three babes 5-8

IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Dang rights! I’m fun, I’m spontaneous and I’m dedicated! Bonus: I have a great husband who lets me go out and play whenever I want!

DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? Since I was a little girl, yes!

DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Not often. I’m not good at sarcasm.

DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? I wish I didn’t, but yes, I do.

WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? In a heartbeat! I’d also sky-dive! Loved parasailing!

DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? I don’t buy shoes if I have to tie them, so that would be a big honking no!

DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Physically, not very. Spiritually, I’m trying. Emotionally, Very.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Vanilla because you can add anything to it to make it fit your mood. Okay. Butter Pecan if I’m at Baskin Robbins.

SHOE SIZE? 8.5 if it’s wide in the front.

RED OR PINK? RED!

WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I wish I were three inches taller!

WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My uncle Bobby, Grannie and Toni.

WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Maryland, 1958

WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Creamy/Khaki pants and I wear shoes as rarely as I can! The ones that I took off when I walked in the door were white with little yellow and purple beads on them.

WHAT IS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Mexican Haystacks and fresh cherries off our tree then movie popcorn, Reeses and Diet Coke at the movies tonight!

WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Keith Urban and Toby Keith on random

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Sunshine Yellow

FAVORITE SMELL? Macintosh Apple Yankee Candles

WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED WITH ON THE PHONE? My daughter Liza

THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU MEET? Their eyes, whether or not they look me in the eye when they talk to me. Their teeth and their hands, in that order

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? Doug says it’s my ability to build an immediate repore with people. Denise said it’s my ability to write with feeling. I say it’s my decorating ability.

FAVORITE DRINK? Diet Coke

FAVORITE SPORT? Swimming or cross-country skiing

HAIR COLOR? Dark Brown

EYE COLOR? Darker Brown

DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Nope, but on my 46th birthday, I got some reading glasses.

FAVORITE FOOD? Cream Cheese anything.

SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? Happy! ALWAYS Happy!

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? "The Lake House tonight at the theater. (Please pass what it was about???) "Dave" on DVD.

WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Lime Green

SUMMER OR WINTER? Definitely winter and the more snow the better!

HUGS OR KISSES? From Doug, Kisses. From everyone else, lots of hugs. I’m very huggie.

FAVORITE DESSERT? Fruit Pizza, definitely.

WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Sarah’s Quilt and If Life Were Easy, It wouldn’t be Hard by Sheri Dew

THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? To the South: Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, Mexico (where the movie Ten was filmed). To the North: Banff, Canada. To the West: SanDiego or Oregon Coast. To the East: Washington DC or the Bahamas

IF YOU COULD PICK ANY TWO PEOPLE TO HAVE DINNER WITH, WHO WOULDTHEY BE? Gordon B. Hinckley or Sheri Dew, no doubt about it! ;)

Thursday, June 15, 2006

I WANT: to bask in the sun and feel the desert breeze!I HAVE: THE most wonderful husband in the world!I WISH: that Kelly would get her act together.I HATE: that there are not more hours in the day. I MISS: my late nights with Liza.I HEAR: the Grey’s Anatomy score in my mind far too often.I WONDER: about the life of an old friend.I REGRET: that I didn’t get to talk with Toni the morning before she died.I AM NOT: thin but in my mind I am!I DANCE: to the beat of a different drummer.I SING: horribly but I know the words to almost every song I hear!I CRY: at the drop of a hat.I AM NOT ALWAYS: on top of the laundry.I MAKE WITH MY HANDS: some dang good brownies and homemade rolls, beautiful scrapbooks and pretty french braids.I WRITE: on my blog every day and a lot of lists.I CONFUSE: which day of the week it is too often.I NEED: a new swimsuit.I SHOULD: stop drinking diet coke.I START: thinking of Christmas long before most people.I FINISH: one fire before I start working on the next.

Monday, May 08, 2006

It was actually cold here in the valley today. I made a big pot of minestrone soup and realized while I was chopping veggies that this will probably be the last pot of soup that I make until fall. As I watched the babes out on the trampoline after school, I could actually feel the heat of summer. Boy, time flies by so quickly.

Since we didn’t get to Mission Impossible last weekend, a different friend invited me to go tonight. WOW!! I felt guilty for sitting there enjoying it so without Doug! It’s definitely a man’s movie. BUT. With Tom, Scientology or not, it’s a woman’s movie! He’s amazing! I loved it! Take a deep breath before it begins because you won’t breathe again for the next two hours!

Another soapbox plea from the movie buff... If you want to text message for two hours, don’t bother going to the movies! Just stay home and do it so that everyone else can enjoy the show! Tonight, the couple next to us got 17 calls between the two of them where they texted back. SEVENTEEN. And they were on a date. They could have saved a whole bunch of movie and sat at home alone, not even had the date, to do that! Stepping down. AGAIN!

Note to self: When making cornbread, snorting cornmeal is not good for the health. I’m still choking. And that stuff moves like it’s powdered sugar! Don’t laugh. It still hurts! ;)

And for another Granola Man story about my husband. Two weeks ago, I called the Lawn Doc to come and spray the yard for dandelions and the flowerbed needs to be killed off. I explained to the guy that I’m married to a granola person and he’d probably be wise to come before 3 because my husband loves dandelions and won’t want him to spray. A week later, he’s still not come. I called the guy to ask if he didn’t really need my business or what. He said, "Didn’t you have a talk with your husband?" Excuse me? He explained that he’d come while I was exercising the week before and my husband told him that he really likes dandelions and didn’t want them sprayed. ONLY DOUG!! I asked him to come again before three o'clock this time. He said that he’d be here the next day. That was a week ago yesterday. He’s still not come. Doug did actually spray the dandelions but I still need the Round-up on the flowerbeds. Tomorrow, I’ll be calling someone else to come and do the job. Somewhere between not wanting to owe the earth an apology for using plastic and eating the weeds in the yard, Doug’s really a normal kind of guy! He does keep me laughing! BTW, dandelions really are edible. YUCK. Milkweed is better. So is Lamb’s Quarter. It tastes like asparagus.

Well, that’s more than enough rambling for the day. One last little thing that I thought was fun. A meme for the day. Haven’t done one in a while. This one was short and sweet. A word association, these were the first words that came to my mind:

Represent - example

Mumbling - shy

Meetup - let’s do lunch

Tantalizing - Grey’s Anatomy

Fake - boobs

Dale - my hippie son

Deny - Lie

Calories - Cream cheese

Roll - Call

44 - My favorite number

Happiness grows at our own firesides, and is not to be picked in strangers' gardens.

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

My awesome sister-in-law, Barbie showed up at my door this morning with this beautiful bouquet of flowers for no other reason than "because"! We had a nice long visit and before she left, we were out in my front yard, laying out the plans for replanting a flower bed where we removed all the shrubs last fall! She’s going to help me do the job and believe me, she is the one to do it! Her garden salutes when she walks out her door! I'm actually excited about playing in the dirt!

Carol dropped by this afternoon just to kill an hour while her teen daughter was at a game nearby. I love it when that happens! She’s now got my other copy of DaVinci Code and will be my motivating factor to completing it SOON!

About IDOL: Hoooorrrrrraaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyy!!! Enough said!

Bunco tonight! Here’s another WONDERFUL Salad recipe from our host Kelly. It was good enough that it’s what we’re having for dinner tonight!

Chicken and Fruit Salad

Combine in large bowl:

6 cups cooked, chopped chicken or 2 cans of canned chicken breast

16 oz. cookbow-tie macaroni

1/4 cup green onions

In separate bowl, mix:

2 cups mayonaise (not miracle whip)

16 oz. coleslaw dressing

Juice from pineapple listed below.

Mix and chill. Add:

1 can pineapple tidbits

1 cup diced celery

2 cups green and red seedless grapes

2 small Fuji apples, chopped and diced

1 small bag slivered almonds

Best if the pasta and dressing mixes are combined the night before. Add the rest before serving.

And last but not least, I saw this Meme and thought I’d have some fun with it too!

in my fridge

Diet Coke

3 half gallons of milk

5 dozen eggs

more leftovers in Tupperware than I care to deal with

cream cheese

in my closet

My Granddaddy’s footstool

A fishing tackle box with my least worn jewelry

A box filled with random gifts purchased on sale for future

A small IRIS cart with odds and ends

Scout Leadership books of Doug’s, for a lack of no place better to put them and have him remember where they are.

Friday, March 03, 2006

I'm ready for spring! More snow is on it's way. I'm the biggest fan of snow but when I saw this photo, I decided I'm ready!

I’ve not watched a daytime soap in years and years and years. I turned on the TV to pop in a DVD and Ridge and Hunter were married again on the Bold and the Beautiful. I looked at the two of them and wondered if they been trying to get together for the past 12 years or is this their fourth marriage since I quite watching? And, mannnnnnnn! Have they gotten old! Glad that I’ve not aged that much!

I discovered this fun website yesterday. Type in a song or artist and it will "create" a new radio station for you based on your tastes. I’m loving it! I typed in Sarah McLachlin and can’t get enough! Maybe it’s old news for others, but I’m just jumping on this bandwagon!

Have I mentioned Sudoku, this new number puzzle craze? It’s totally addicting! Liza gave me a box set and I’m hooked! I learned today that the daily newspaper is now publishing a daily puzzle too.

About this week's episode of Lost (and every episode for that matter), I'm LOST!

I really really need to change my banner! ETA: Was playing with changing it and woke up to a pink banner. I must have it save instead of preview... oops. Oh, well, I like it.

I was sent this little survey/meme by an old friend and loved the questions:

I know you indulge yourself - but how? I would have to answer first with doing lunch with friends. We can do lunch every weekday for the same price as Doug and I going out for dinner once a week. Most of the time, we split lunch, making it even less expensive and there’s usually food still left over. Doug’s appetite is for healthier food with no MSG and he loves my cooking. So, I’d much rather cook for Doug at night and play during the day with my girlfriends. Yesterday, at Chili’s, Denise’s husband called to say hi (he was in Portland on business). When she said, "Sophia and I are just having lunch at Chili’s." Clint’s comment: "I wish I had your life." We laughed, but we really do have it pretty easy. ZJ isn’t going to like school cafeteria food next year... she’ll be expecting refills on her drink and a server to flirt with her!

What's one book you'd like to read sooner then later? Got a couple of hours?

What's the next practical TO DO project for your home? I want to repaint ZJ’s bedroom lime green and my scrapbook room (still going back and forth on the color), as soon as I can open the windows and breathe some fresh air along with the paint!

Do you like silence or background noise? NOISE. ABSOLUTELY. MUST HAVE NOISE. I sleep with a little machine that gives me the sound of the ocean, a rainstorm or crickets at the ranch. In the summer, I have the fan blowing in my face for the sound. The TV or music is usually on in the background. I usually go for silence when I really really need some inspiration and want to have a clear mind to receive it.

If you could revisit a certain era, which one would it be? I would love to have walked along side of or at the feet of the Savior for a day. But, life was too hard then to live. If I was going back in time, I’d be picky... a day in the life of some Southern Belle like Scarlett Ohara would be sweet, only if I had Mammy there along side me. And my option, if I had to spend some time in that era would have been the early fifties, when music was great and life was much more simple!

"There is no need to go to India or anywhere else to find peace. You will find that deep place of silence right in your room, your garden or even your bathtub. "